The Take Care Award recognises exceptional safety achievements and exemplary safety behaviour. Site Manager Plamen Kirchev of the Avenue Building Company, a subsidiary of Ballast Nedam UK, received the award for the second quarter of 2025.

During renovation work at King’s College Hospital in London, he immediately halted operations after a suspicious substance was discovered beneath the floor. “A subcontractor pointed it out to me. Since asbestos had previously been found in the same building, I said straight away: stop!” A brave decision, as stopping work can quickly lead to delays. Was Plamen concerned? “As we say here: ‘better be safe than sorry’. We’re trained to act this way in such situations. For me, it wasn’t a difficult decision.”

Leading by example

After informing his director Mick Farren and the client, a specialist was quickly brought in to take a sample of the suspicious material. The subsequent investigation confirmed Plamen’s suspicion: it was indeed asbestos. He wasn’t surprised. “I’ve encountered this before over the years. In more than half of those cases, it turned out to be asbestos. That’s why I advise everyone to stop immediately if you come across something suspicious. Our health, and that of the people around us, is simply our top priority. Everyone wants to go home safe and healthy at the end of the day.”

Mick fully agrees: “We aim to lead the way in this area. Our site managers receive ongoing safety training, and all our employees complete a weekly safety checklist. We also work with an independent consultant who carries out unannounced safety inspections.” What does Mick expect from his team in similar situations? “Exactly what Plamen did. Stop the work, make sure no one enters the affected area, and call us. We’ll bring in specialists and the client to investigate and only resume work once it’s completely safe.”

Recognition
The Take Care Award was a new concept for Plamen. “Mick came up to me and said, ‘our friends from the mainland really appreciate what you’ve done. They want to give you an award.’ I must say, I’m incredibly proud. You don’t receive this kind of recognition every day.” And what will Plamen do with the €500 prize? With a wink: “I’ll spend it wisely.”

€500 cheque
Each quarter, the Take Care Award jury — consisting of HSE Director Geert van der Linde and members of the Works Council’s VGWM committee — selects a winner from the previous quarter’s nominations. The winning entry receives €500 to treat their team, organise a fun activity, or donate to a good cause.